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Surfing on Dry Land
Dual POV, dual timeline.
A mom and her daughter, 15 years apart. Homeless, undocumented, and each trying to find their way in the world.
GOLD WINNER
Moonbeam Children's Book Awards, 2026
YA fictional novel - Mature Issues
Ixchel
is a 15 year old teen from the Kaqchikel tribe in Sololá, Guatemala. She weaves clothing and works in the community farm, but everything changes when she goes into labor. Shortly after her child Xiomara is born, she flees northward, seeking safety.
Xio
is looking forward to the summer of her life, skateboarding around KTown with her two best friends. But then, everything changes when her mom is taken by ICE. She doesn't know who to turn to or how to keep herself safe, and she has no way to ask her mom what she should do.
YIMBY! Yes! In My Back Yard!
Written with gentle language and beautifully illustrated.
Everyone is healthier, happier, and safer when everyone has what they need.
This beautiful picture book shows how kids and families can help unhoused members of their communities.
YIMBY: Yes! In My Back Yard! (available in English and Spanish)
This book shows how everybody can help people experiencing homelessness in their own communities. (ages 4-8)
Critical Reviews:
Kirkus: " A gorgeously rendered, heartfelt picture book with an important mission statement and helpful calls to action."
Publisher's Weekly Book Life: Editor's Pick- "(T)he story's characters ... (offer) a welcoming, respectful answer to the housing crisis that so many communities are experiencing today."
Chanticleer: 5 Stars - "YIMBY... presents a simple yet powerful story that speaks to the heart of human kindness and the need to help our fellow man."
Youtube link of the author reading YIMBY.
